The sport of cricket, which originated in the 16th century in Southeast England, spread globally with the expansion of the British Empire, and today thrives in South Asia, Oceania, South Africa, and the West Indies. In Afghanistan, however, cricket has transcended its status as just a sport: It is a way of life, a national tradition, and a beacon of hope for young people seeking better opportunities.
A global movement is emerging, committed to the growth of cricket and the development of players, especially those from Afghanistan and South Asia, as they make their mark around the world, including in the United States. Leading this effort is Zarwali Khan Hasan, a passionate and inspiring figure who has devoted his life to the development of this sport and of the communities it influences.
Hasan was born in Kabul and his passion for cricket developed from a young age. His journey began as a high school player. He quickly excelled, eventually becoming captain of Kardan University’s cricket team. His dedication to the sport led him to an influential role as a team coordinator with the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB). Hasan’s contributions to the successful launches of the Shpageeza Cricket League and the Afghanistan Premier League were crucial in growing the sport nationally. His expertise in cricket administration and mentorship earned him widespread recognition. "Being able to contribute to the rise of Afghan cricket on the international stage was not just a job but a mission I deeply believed in,” he reflects.
Hasan’s exceptional organizational skills, coupled with his commitment to excellence and his innate ability to foster a cohesive and highly functional team culture, are key to the success of the teams he works with. “I saw the potential for cricket to uplift young athletes, provide them with opportunities for personal and professional growth, and represent Afghanistan or their respective countries on a global stage,” he explains.
Mr. Hasan has a unique talent for transforming teams into tight communities, where collaboration and mutual respect prevail.
His mission is fostering the growth of the sport he loves. Nowadays, through his volunteer work in the United States, he mentors new talents, creates opportunities for younger generations, and develops a culture of excellence. “My ability to streamline communication between players, coaches, and management ensures that everyone is aligned with our goals and objectives, while my attention to detail allows us to focus on both the minutiae of training and the bigger picture of competition preparation,” he shares.
Hasan’s values—integrity, teamwork, and leadership—are principles he has nurtured from the beginning of his career. “These are values I’ve cultivated through years of working in cricket administration, fostering growth in a sport that brings people together.”
At 33, Zarwali Khan Hasan is a powerful force for change. His vision extends beyond individual success. He seeks to develop systems that focus on both excellence in performance and the holistic growth of athletes. His goal is to shape future professionals who thrive not only on the field but also in life.
Looking ahead, Hasan’s long-term ambition is to assume leadership roles within cricket or broader sports management, where he can influence strategic decisions and shape the future of sports on an international level. He remains committed to mentoring young athletes and nurturing the next generation of sports leaders.